The Pomeranian, with an unique profile and equally defining attitude, this little dog is quite convinced he is a larger dog in a smaller package. Capable of being a serious watch dog (will alert you to things that take his notice) as well as terrifyingly fearless (willing to take on foes that far outmatch him). In appearance, his coat belies a beauty that hides the compact yet athletic body the breed possesses. His spirit and spunk make him a joy to work with and the breed has distinguished itself in pet therapy, assistance dogs, flyball, agility, obedience and other dog activities. While the Pom might be delighted to spend evenings at home snuggled on the couch after a good walk.. do not mistake him for a couch potato!

Overall Appearance: Compact, jaunty Nordic breed, the Pomeranian's tail lies over its back and helps create (along with a correct proportion of leg to back length) a decidedly triangular appearance. Unquestionably of Spitz descent, he is truly a toy version with an exceptionally profuse coat.

Personaility - Behavior - Training

Energy Level: moderate to high

General Nature:

active, alert, self assured

with Children: can be intimidated by rough, boisterous and inconsiderate people of any age

with other pets: generally good

with dogs: generally good but with a fearless nature that could get him in trouble with larger dogs

Socialization requirements: moderate: without proper socialization the Pom can become anxious and lacking in confidence

Ideal home characteristics: developed as a companion dog, this is not an ideal companion for the household that has no one home during the day, otherwise very adaptable to a wide variety of lifestyles with heavy travel, apartment life, etc.

Temperament Notes: intelligent, jaunty, joyful, playful and tenacious

Training requirement: moderate: an inappropriately handled Pom can be a tyrant or a bundle of anxiety

Trainer notes:Care must always be taken to handle breeds of this diminutive stature with respect. A drop or jump of even 12 inches can result in serious injury. A Pom that lacks trust due to inexperience, lack of socialization or other causes can be difficult to handle but often can be brought around with patience and knowledge. They are a joy to work with as a close partner but do require a trainer with some understanding of small dog techniques. Proper socialization at an early age will guarantee the development of a confident dog that can be a joy to live with for a lifetime.

Background Information

Year range of first recognition: at current size, mid-late 1800s

Country of Origin: Germany/Britain

Original Function: ancester was nordic sled dog but the Pomeranian was developed as a companion

History: Developed in Germany in the 1700 and 1800s, they came to Britain and became the fancy of Queen Victoria. At the time, weighing around 30 pounds, a number of the Pom Clubs appealed for a reduction in the standard, which took it to 7 pounds.

Adoption Information

Deviations from Standard: oversized, undersized, loss of correct head (stop), eye shape (should be almond but will be round in poorer specimens)